The Brew (January 2009)

Thomas Hooker Brewing, a producer of premium craft beer, offers its new Nor’easter brew. Brewed to celebrate winter in New England, it possesses a hearty malt flavor delicately accented my mild winter spices. It aims to please a variety of palates. The Nor’easter winter brew will only be available on tap through February. Patrons can experience the great hearty taste of the Nor’easter on-premise or at one of Thomas Hooker’s open houses at the brewery in Bloomfield, Conn.

Samuel Adams Blackberry Witbier joins the lineup of craft brews from Boston Beer Co. The winner of the fourth annual Samuel Adams Beer Lover’s Choice Contest is a traditional wheat beer brewed with orange peel, coriander and blackberries for a sweet and tart flavor. It pairs well with mild cheeses, grilled sausages or cream-based seafood dishes, as well as with chocolate mousse or cheesecake.

Widmer Brothers Brewing introduces Brrr, its first new winter ale in four years. It’s a moderately strong dark red ale that embodies the notable Pacific Northwest style citrus hop aroma and flavor. Brrr provides a tangible, but not excessive, flavor that ultimately transitions into a candy-like malty sweetness and quick finish. Caramel and chocolate malts provide flavor complexity, and an enticing color. Its stealthy alcohol content of 7.15 percent will warm up even the chilliest of nights.